Red oak is a commanding deciduous tree that grows 50-75 feet tall with a broad, spreading crown and dark, lustrous green leaves that turn burnished brownish-red each autumn. Hardy in zones 4 through 8, this native species thrives in full sun and handles drought with ease once established, making it equally at home in suburban yards and urban streetscapes. Its moderate-to-fast growth rate and low maintenance needs earn it a place among the most reliable shade trees for temperate climates.
Full Sun
Moderate
4-8
900in H x 900in W
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Moderate
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Red oak's leaves are distinctly handsome: deep green on top with a grayish-white underside, marked by 7 to 11 sharply pointed, toothed lobes that create an almost sculptural quality when backlit by autumn sun. The tree's robust constitution allows it to thrive in acidic, sandy soils with good drainage, and it handles drought and urban conditions without complaint. Its acorns nourish wildlife throughout fall and winter, adding ecological value beyond the visual drama of its seasonal foliage.
Red oak serves as an outstanding shade tree for lawns and parks, where its broad crown provides substantial cooling coverage. It performs equally well as a street tree in urban and suburban settings, offering durable performance in challenging conditions. Wildlife depend on its abundant acorn crop for food, making it valuable for conservation-minded landscaping.
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